Posted on January 28, 2010.
Mount Kinabalu Borneo A hiker myself wish, and one that peaked Mount Kinabalu over 35 times while carrying many tourists, I think it is fair that I give some of my knowledge, if you are not only well prepared, but also enjoy all aspects of this exciting but sometimes difficult hike, because you have everything you need.
My number one must do, hire a Porter: Yes, we all want to prove we're strong and fit, while requiring no assistance trekking in mountains, but it is not YOUR holiday? And if that does not let me tell you a little about the incredibly delicious Dusun people who make their living guiding and portage to Mt K. First you offer someone a job, enjoying a friendly smile and maybe "if you're lucky" some broken English along the way. Do not be afraid to walk with your concierge, and Chit Chat, after all, if you are able you should be able to train with them. Your guide is a must, after all you simply are not allowed to climb the mountain without one. Do not be shy, he's only going to make your climb a disappointing if you do walk away with some new best friends, you can even get an invitation to the village.
Secondly, another reason to hire a Porter: You must be prepared for a hot and very cold weather in one package, you also need something to sleep, toiletries, so let the porter carry these for you and enjoy the low load on the first day.
Things that I recommend you to run on the first day:
1. Small backpack (pack of Camel) with 2 liters of water from the bladder
2. Emergency plastic poncho (and umbrella if you're not too embarrassed)
3. A light fleece for sleeping areas (do not let your body cool too)
4. High energy snacks
5. Camera and a waterproof bag
6. Headlamp (do not use a pocket flashlight, you need both hands to climb on the second day)
7. Small first aid kit or make a number of things like bandages, dressings and antiseptic spray
8. Sun Block
9. Walking stick (optional)
10. Money, you must buy your food at home is not cheap, but there are some items you may want, like the dinner buffet and breakfast, you'll need about 100MYR, make you confirm the price with your guide before you leave, because it may have changed since my last climb.
The first morning (headquarters) Make sure you eat a good breakfast full of slow burning carbohydrates, if you are a slower Walker, a good beginning and at the beginning between 7:30 and 8:30, you do not want to be still running the darkness. You must go and light hiking pants or shorts, good shoes rubber grip which is good on flat rock surfaces slippery and gravel with ankle support, a t-shirt and hat.
What's in the bag Porter? First start filling a garbage bag solid instead of another backpack. Carriers usually have their own bag or basket, it is easier for them to fit in a garbage bag, rather than a bulky package, and proof things are more water that way. I recommend putting the following inside:
1. A pair of comfortable pants Nice sweatpants, a jumper and t-shirt, clean socks thick and thin (underwear)
2. Very basic toiletries, toothbrush and paste! (Soap and towels can be obtained at Laban Rata housing)
3. A pair of thongs (flip flops) or sandals
4. A windbreaker and good light jacket water warm, but the evidence
5. Higher thermal
6. Beanie, and two pairs of gloves a thickness of a thin (or you can use another pair of socks)
7. If you are a fussy foil sleeping, the blankets on the beds are cleaned every day!
You'll thank me when you're sitting in the apartment with warm clothes clean and dry, and others are shivering in their pants and sweat shirts.
